The little white-toothed shrew

Crocidura russula is considered the most common shrew in the Portuguese territory and holds the status of “Least Concern” (LC) according to the Red Book of Vertebrates of Portugal. It can be easily identified given its physical characteristics, in particular the size of its ears and, obviously, its white teeth, and is one of the residents of the Vale de Beja estate, managed by The Navigator Company. Should we get to know it better?

The white-toothed shrew can adapt relatively easily to hot climates and can be found all over Europe and predominantly in the Iberian Peninsula, from the north to the south of Portugal. As regards its habitat, it looks for open areas with abundant herbaceous vegetation. However, given its ability to adapt to different environments, it can also be spotted in urbanised areas, such as gardens and crop areas, for example.

Its name derives from its white teeth, namely 3 unicuspid teeth, but there is much more to say about the physiology of the Crocidura russula species. This small mammal measures between 5 and 8.5 cm and has a narrow head and pointed snout with light-coloured whiskers, rounded ears and small eyes, a greyish (in winter) or reddish-brown (in summer) back, albeit whiter in the womb area. Its tail is long and covered with long, insulated hair.

As this is a polyphasic species, its day is split in different periods. In this particular case, during its usual 8 hours of activity, it alternates between short active periods (mostly at night) and periods of rest.

In terms of feeding, the white-toothed shrew is insectivorous and its diet consists therefore of insects and a wide variety of small invertebrates, occasionally lizards and small rodents.

As for the breeding season, which begins when it reaches 3 months of (sexual) maturity, it takes place between February and November. Gestation lasts on average between 28 to 33 days and, per year, and each female can have between 4 to 5 litters, in turn, composed of 2 to 10 offsprings. Oddly enough, during mating, the couple defends the territory together.

Did you know that the white-toothed shrew…

Those who live in the city tend to be bolder and more active, compared to those in rural environments.

It hibernates in the colder months in burrows under logs or rocks, and if a burrow accommodating offprings is disturbed, the female takes them elsewhere in an orderly row.

In winter, it builds nests that can accommodate up to 6 individuals.